Legal representatives for Ghanaian musician Angel Maxine have formally declined a request to retract and apologise over statements challenged by Assin South Member of Parliament John Ntim Fordjour.
In a response issued by Merton & Everett LLP and signed by senior partner Oliver Barker-Vormawor, the legal team stated that their client would not comply with the demands made by the MP’s lawyers.
According to the statement, Angel Maxine has already addressed the concerns raised through a public clarification explaining the intent and context of the content in question.
The lawyers argued that the remarks cited were not presented as factual claims but rather formed part of satire and political commentary. They explained that the statements were made within the broader context of public debate surrounding the proposed Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.
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They further maintained that the comments fall under fair comment on matters of public interest, particularly discussions around legislation and its potential social impact.
“Our client’s position is that the statements, viewed in their proper context, constitute fair comment on a matter of public interest,” portions of the response indicated.
The legal team also emphasised that public office holders are subject to scrutiny and criticism, especially when they are associated with policies or legislative proposals that attract national attention.
In their view, such commentary forms part of democratic engagement and public discourse.
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They additionally rejected claims that the statements were defamatory, stating that there was no intention to harm the reputation of the MP.
“Our client denies that the statements were defamatory… and further denies any malice,” the statement noted.
As a result, the lawyers confirmed that no retraction or apology will be issued, adding that their client reserves the right to respond further if necessary.
The development follows an earlier demand from lawyers representing Rev. Ntim Fordjour, who alleged that certain social media posts contained false and damaging claims and called for a retraction.
The matter continues to generate public discussion, particularly around freedom of expression, political commentary, and the legal boundaries of defamation in Ghana.
